I put prey item(s) directly in a cup of hot water. Let sit 20 minutes. Replace hot water. Let sit another 20 minutes. Replace water 3rd and final time. Immediately dab prey on paper towels to remove excess water and feed.

Soaking gives extra hydration, if your snake will take a wet rodent. I have weighed mice before and after soaking and they seem to gain an anywhere from 5-10 mL of water, and rats would gain even more. A nice extra drink at feeding time.